Author: Dr. Ajit Varwandkar

When they read the inspiring columns that I publish every week, some people share this feedback. They say, “Your words of motivation are good for those who have an inherent willpower to achieve more.” Some further ask me, “Is there any method which can help a person increase willpower?” My answer is, “There is no such medicine in this universe which can permanently jack up your willpower. However, five transformational practices can make your willpower ‘damage proof’ when observed like a habit!” Here are those:

1. Practice Self-belief 

Will Power becomes a casualty only for those who lack self-belief. Practice a high level of self-belief consciously. This does not mean one should be overconfident or arrogant, but the ability to be firm on our dreams and aspirations. 

Self-belief usually generates from two vital elements:

  1. a) Knowledge 
  2. b) Self esteem 

Whatever be your goal, you must have a depth of wisdom in the domain. Your understanding of the knowledge ecosystem will keep you charged all the way. Likewise, if you practice high self-esteem, bottlenecks and failures on your way will not be able to shake your willpower. 

2. Debate with yourself:

A very fruitful habit to develop is to debate with oneself. The more critically you argue about your decisions, the more indefatigable you become. In the process, you get acquainted with otherwise unfathomable pros and cons of your decisions. This habit also prepares you to make quick decisions and take swift turns, especially when encountering roadblocks. 

3. Keep the end in mind always:
We must develop this habit to glue our focus on end. After all, it is not how we start but how we end the journey that defines us.

Recently, I met a 60-year-old person of high repute. He said, “all my life, I did social service, but now I am into making big money. Most of my friends have bought high-value cars, travelled worldwide and built mansions. Well, I think it is now my turn to do it all!” 

Only a person with an untiring vision and an unflinching focus on the end-result can be so determined and optimistic. 

4. Honour your Promises:
When you respect your word, it reinforces commitment. Usually, people who do not care for whatever they have said end up losing their reputation and pride. Such people get into the habit of avoidance and procrastination–a sure recipe for failure and disappointment. 

I strongly suggest everyone practice honouring one’s commitment, irrespective of circumstances. The more you practice such behaviour, the more powerful you make the muscle of your willpower. This character must become your DNA.

5. Set Challenging goals:
Never short-sell your abilities. Anybody can achieve it when the goal is short. Sub-standard achievements create more harm than good. Do not strive for the easy – set a challenging goal and be committed to it. 

Suppose a student studying in class 12th  is asked to appear in an examination conducted for the students of class 4th. Definitely, they will show outstanding performance. However, such achievement will never reflect the real potential, nor will it motivate the person to achieve more. 

The golden rule to be followed is, “Your aspirations must always be much bigger than your resources.” 

Friends, why not attempt to practice the above five habits for at least 21 days and see the change?

 

Do contact me in case you have any career queries.

Dr. Ajit Varwandkar is the Director of myaglakadam.com. He is a leading career counselor and can be contacted on 9826132972 or email him at info@fsindia.in

This column was originally published by the author in The Times of India